Camillo Barone

The new Fordham Francis Index reveals gaps in basic needs and fundamental freedoms for millions worldwide. The report was released on Nov. 15, to coincide with World Day of the Poor, celebrated Nov. 17.

Cardinal Timothy Dolan laid off 18 employees as part of a financial restructuring across offices of the Archdiocese of New York as part of budget cuts to save at least $1.5 million. 

In the immediate aftermath of former President Donald Trump winning a second term, sisters consider the global and local implications for immigrants, the environment, and the common good.

Despite faith and commitment, transgender Catholics face rejection from religious orders due to their gender identities. Yet, they find support in faith communities and have an informal network to navigate their spiritual callings.

Representatives from global Catholic lay movements who gathered near the Vatican, urged synod delegates to address clericalism, embrace diverse voices and renew the church's mission for the 21st century.

 Former President Donald Trump delivered barbed remarks, Vice President Kamala Harris called for unity and honesty in a prerecorded video, and $10 million was raised for Catholic charities.

According to The Daily Caller, Mary Erdoes, board vice chair of the Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation, explained that the organization had tried to secure Harris' attendance, but scheduling conflicts related to her campaign prevented her from being present.

At a key Vatican synod forum, canon law professor Donata Horak urged the church to abandon its monarchical model, advocating for reforms that would empower laypeople and redefine decision-making processes. 

Meeting the pope "convinces me I'm on the right path," said one of four American transgender women, lifelong Catholics, who met with Pope Francis Sept. 18. 

More than 200 Catholic peace advocates gathered virtually for Pax Christi USA's national conference, which delved into the theme "We Are One Body: Being a Prophetic Church in a Time of Polarization and Conflict."

Among Catholic voters, Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris has a slight advantage over Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, according to a poll conducted by RealClear Opinion Research and EWTN.

As the Democrats' 2024 platform omits the abolition of the death penalty and Donald Trump vows to expand executions, grassroots activists keep the fight alive through prayer vigils, protests, and legislative efforts.

Through connections with diverse and multi-religious communities and a commitment to social justice, Br. Mickey McGrath's art transcends traditional boundaries, weaving together faith, culture and history.

As thousands of immigrants flood into New York City, Catholic Charities is at the forefront of a humanitarian response. The organization provides essential services, legal aid and emotional support.

For five decades, Fr. Ed Reading has been "healing the healers" as a counselor treating priests and physicians with addictions. As he steps into retirement, Reading reflects on his pioneering work and enduring legacy.

After encountering Silvio Berlusconi and being assaulted by Harvey Weinstein, Ambra Battilana Gutierrez became a key figure in the #MeToo movement. Her Catholic faith sustained her through a journey that led her to advocate for women's rights in the fashion industry.

Participants shared stories of faith, resilience and rejection at the Outreach 2024 LGBTQ Catholic Ministry Conference. The event, with more than 400 attendees, included Mass celebrated by D.C. Cardinal Wilton Gregory.

With Pope Francis and Cardinal Wilton Gregory expressing their support, the Outreach conference promises to foster dialogue, celebrate queer theology, and explore the intersection of faith and LGBTQ identities in the Catholic Church.

The peaceful demonstration, which resulted in 24 arrests, is part of a broader "Summer of Heat" Faith Week campaign aiming to hold financial and petrochemical giants accountable for their role in the climate crisis.

Amid ongoing Vatican condemnations, Catholic families pursue surrogacy with love, respect and resilience. NCR's Camillo Barone explores their faith, challenges and the evolving landscape of family within the church.